How I (really) got to Africa

Yes, I was able to get to Africa through a generous grant through Cancer Climber. But there’s another very important factor that got me there.

You.

Yes, you, reader.

Just a sampling of all the “Get well soon” and “Congratulations, you’re well!” cards and letters from friends and family. These covered my bed and there were plenty more stacked on the corner. You guys are amazing.

Over the years, I collected all of the ‘Get well soon’ and ‘Congratulations, you’re healthy’ cards that were given to my family and I. They took up space and were always a bit cumbersome to move with. They would collect dust and add to the clutter in my apartment or house. But I couldn’t bring myself to get rid of them. They had a hold on me, and still do. The gesture of a simple, folded piece of paper with a cheesy saying on it meant so much to me, and still does.

That’s why I’ve kept all of them.

Thank you all.

You’re my motivation to get up the mountain. You’re my motivation to get up each day. You’re my motivation to keep climbing and keep fighting.